Key Issues

While the Democratic Republic of Congo has the natural and human resources to thrive, it has the unenviable distinction of having the lowest GDP per capita in the world—$600 compared to $53,000 in the United States.

Decades of war, violence, and poverty have claimed the lives of over five million people. An absence of schools, health care, and reliable income-generating opportunities hinder communities’ ability to emerge from crisis.

Despite overwhelming odds, there is hope across eastern Congo today. Communities are working together to create economic opportunities, and leaders from around the world are working in partnership with the people of the DRC for a new future for the region.

Learn about some of the key issues impacting lives in the eastern DRC: